Looking at the UN International Day of Biological Diversity and local issues.

On Wednesday, May 22, Circadia Indigena attended an informative event that touched on the history of the American Eel, an important species and part of the ecology of the Kichi Sipi, the Algonquin name for the Ottawa River. As Larry McDermott, Executive Director of Plenty Canada, described it, the evening was an “example of Art, Science and Traditional Knowledge coming together.” In his presentation on his advocacy work for the Kitchi Sipi, McDermott explained how in Algonquin teachings “water is the first medicine.” If our water is polluted, our ability to be live in healthy environments is compromised.

“Biological Diversity is a global asset of tremendous value to present and future generations… the threat to species and ecosystems has never been so great as it is today.”
– UN Convention on Biological Diversity

Also speaking was a representative from The Canadian Wildlife Federation, who provided both cautionary tales with statistics on the decline of the American Eel but also a story of hope with improved conservation policies and practices.

As well, the event featured the first performance of “The Miraculous Life of Pimisi the American Eel” that used storytelling and music to bring to life the journey the American Eel has taken for centuries from the Sargasso Sea to the banks of the Kitchi Sipi and the Great Lakes.

Nya:wen to all those who shared their knowledge.

ABOVE IMAGE: Leah Snyder for Circadia Indigena.